Denver Roofing Professionals: Dangers Of Working In Cold Weather

January 24, 2018

You’ve probably already noticed the drop in temperatures just by walking outside, and if you don’t think it’s that cold yet, just wait for winter to really kick in! Out here in Colorado, winters can be extremely cold and, quite frankly, pretty brutal. While it may be cold out there, The Roof Dr. operates year round, which means we’ve gotten used to dealing with such cold weather, but it doesn’t mean that it’s completely safe for us to be out in freezing temperatures. Keep reading to learn about the dangers of roofing in cold weather from your Denver roofing professionals!

Falling From A Roof

One of the most obvious dangers that wintertime roofing presents is the possibility of falling or slipping off of your roof. Winter conditions such as freezing rain, sleet, and snow, can all accumulate on top of your roof presenting you with the problem of not being able to see where you are stepping. You often won’t even be able to see icy patches that may be present, so you’re really risking it when you go up on your roof. If you need to get up on your roof, and you have a flat roof, invest in some traction devices for the bottom of your boots or shoes. This will offer a better grip when you’re working on an icy or slippery surface. Temporary guardrails do exist and are a great idea to install on the roof to give yourself something to hold onto.

Frostbite

Frostbite can happen to anyone going up on a roof in the winter if they haven’t properly covered themselves to protect them from the cold. Frostbite occurs when you have exposed skin to freezing temperatures where ice particles form in the cells which destroys your skin’s tissues. Check for pale skin, especially if you lose feeling in a certain spot. As the day prolong, or as your frostbite gets worse, your skin will change to white, yellow, and blue when you lose blood circulation to that area. Frostbite commonly affects your ears, nose, fingers, and toes. If you start to notice your body getting frostbite, treat the area as soon as possible. Soak it in warm water until your skin is warm and pink again.

Hypothermia

Another danger of not wearing the proper clothing to keep yourself warm on top of a roof is hypothermia. This occurs when it’s so cold out that your body’s internal temperature drastically drops below the level that’s needed to keep your vital organs functioning. If you notice that you’re feeling clumsy, confused, drowsy, have a weak pulse, or shallow breathing, you’re most likely getting hypothermia. Always wear layer after layer of clothing to keep your body warm in this weather!

At The Roof Dr. we know all about winter roof preparation. Contact us today with any questions or if you need help with your roof in the winter! We have over 45 years under our belt, so we know all about Colorado winters!